When I was younger my friends and I used to add “in bed” to the end of a fortune cookies’ message. In retrospect, it was only mildly funny, but still, we’d laugh at the silly fact that no matter what the fortune, “in bed” at the end always seemed to apply.

“Conquer your fears or they will conquer you (in bed).”

“Good news from afar may bring you a welcome visitor (in bed).”

“You will have a pleasant surprise (in bed).”

“Do not fear what you don’t know (in bed).”

Lately I have been applying a new phrase to the end of things: “for now”. It’s a seemingly subtle alteration, but those two little words at the end of a sentence can profoundly change my outlook and help put things into perspective.

I am feeling a little depressed (for now).

My child is struggling with sensory issues (for now).

The kids are fighting a lot (for now).

There’s no snow in Tahoe (for now).

And when life is good, "for now" reminds me not to get too comfortable or sanctimonious about a situation, as it may not last.

My kids have become so independent (for now).

Everyone is doing really well in school (for now).

The Dow is up (for now).

In either case, remembering that nothing is necessarily permanent is an important perspective for someone (like me) who struggles a little with impatience. Enduring pain is tolerable when I know it’s not lasting. And in those times in life when I am feeling damn lucky, impermanence reminds me to be grateful and humble.